ATMOSPHERIC AEROSOL DYNAMICS AND THEIR IMPACT ON CLIMATE VARIABILITY AND AIR QUALITY IN URBAN REGIONS OF PAKISTAN

Abstract

Atmospheric aerosols have become a major environmental concern due to their significant impacts on climate variability, air quality, and public health, particularly in rapidly urbanizing developing countries such as Pakistan. This study investigated atmospheric aerosol dynamics and their influence on climate variability and urban air quality in major urban regions of Pakistan, including Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, Faisalabad, and Peshawar. A quantitative and observational research design was employed using satellite remote sensing data, meteorological observations, and air quality measurements collected from 2020 to 2025. The study analyzed Aerosol Optical Depth (AOD), particulate matter concentrations (PM2.5 and PM10), temperature, humidity, and wind speed to evaluate aerosol distribution patterns and environmental impacts. Descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and multiple regression analysis were applied to assess relationships among study variables. The findings revealed high aerosol loading and elevated particulate matter concentrations across urban regions of Pakistan, indicating severe atmospheric pollution conditions. Correlation analysis demonstrated a strong positive relationship between aerosol concentrations and urban air pollution indicators, particularly PM2.5 and PM10. Meteorological factors such as temperature and humidity significantly influenced aerosol accumulation, while wind speed negatively affected particulate matter concentration through pollutant dispersion mechanisms. Seasonal analysis indicated that winter experienced the highest aerosol concentrations due to temperature inversion, biomass burning, industrial emissions, and stagnant atmospheric conditions. Regression results confirmed that atmospheric aerosols significantly contributed to climate variability and deteriorating urban air quality. The study concluded that atmospheric aerosol pollution poses serious environmental, climatic, and public health challenges in Pakistan. The findings emphasize the need for effective air pollution control policies, enhanced aerosol monitoring systems, sustainable urban planning, and climate adaptation strategies to reduce environmental degradation and improve public health conditions in urban Pakistan